VerifiedGovernment supports TVET students in two main ways: it subsidises public TVET colleges so fees are lower for everyone, and it funds individual students through NSFAS. Some trade and workplace programmes are also supported through the skills development system.
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Types of government support
| Support | Who gets it | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| College subsidy | All students at public TVET colleges | Keeps fees lower than private colleges |
| NSFAS bursary | Households earning up to R350,000 (R600,000 with a disability) | Tuition and allowances; not repaid |
| NSFAS student loan | Households earning R350,001 to R600,000 | Tuition and some costs; repaid |
| Learnerships and apprenticeships | Selected learners, often through employers and SETAs | Training, sometimes with a stipend |
What sponsorship does not cover
- Private colleges.
- Second qualifications at the same level.
- Time beyond the N+1 limit.
- Occupational programme allowances in some cases.
How to access it
- Apply to a public TVET college.
- Apply for NSFAS at nsfas.org.za during its window.
- Ask your college about learnerships, apprenticeships and Centres of Specialisation programmes linked to employers.
There is no separate government “sponsorship form” for TVET colleges. Messages asking you to pay to register for a sponsorship are scams.
See how NSFAS assists students and studying free at a TVET college.
Frequently asked questions
Does government pay for TVET college?
Government subsidises public colleges and, through NSFAS, pays tuition and allowances for eligible students.
Is there a government sponsorship application for TVET colleges?
The main student funding is NSFAS, applied for online. There is no separate sponsorship form.
